The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advises against all travel to:

• the provinces of Kasaï Oriental, Haut-Uele, Haut Lomami, Ituri, North Kivu (except the city of Goma), South Kivu (except the city of Bukavu - see below), Maniema and Tanganyika in eastern DRC
• within 50km of the border with the Central African Republic and South Sudan

The FCDO advises against all but essential travel to:

• the city of Goma in North Kivu province
• the city of Bukavu in South Kivu province
• the districts of N’djili and Kimbanseke in Kinshasa, both of which are south of the main access road to N’djili airport (located in Nsele district)
• the provinces of Kasiaï and Kasiaï Central
• the territory of Kwamouth (located in Mai-Ndombe province)

As of 29th October, the situation in the Rutshuru area of North Kivu is unstable and fast-moving, with clashes between the Congolese military and armed group M23. The conflict could expand beyond the Rutshuru area at short notice, including to the Goma vicinity. Local authorities are on a high state of alert. Expect increased security and UN force presence in Goma. Travellers should regularly check government advice for updates. (Safety and Security)

As of 6 November, Goma airport is being closed down periodically for short periods of time to facilitate military aircraft movements. The situation in Goma remains uncertain and UK nationals should remain vigilant. Alternative routes to exit Goma may be required at short notice.

If you are a foreign national resident in the city of Kinshasa, you must renew your residency card at the provincial commission by 15 July. The local government has said that people who do not meet the deadline will have to pay an additional fine.

It is more important than ever to get travel insurance and check it provides sufficient cover. See the FCDO’s guidance on foreign travel insurance.

There is an ongoing risk of protests in the East, particularly around Goma, North Kivu province. These could be directed at UN personnel and others within the international community. We advise all UK nationals in DRC to remain vigilant at this time and to avoid demonstrations, protests or disturbances.

On 29 September 2022 DRC’s 15th Ebola outbreak was declared over. The outbreak began on 21 August 2022 in Beni, North Kivu province in Eastern DRC. There have been no new cases since the 21 August 2022. Further information and updates on Ebola can be found on the WHO website and the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) website. UKHSA has guidance for humanitarian or healthcare workers travelling to an Ebola affected area. See Health.

In early August there was an outbreak of violence between ethnic groups over land in Kwamouth territory of Mai-Ndombe province. This has continued and escalated further in September, with a high number of casualties (70+) including women and children. The government has responded with a military deployment to the area. We are not aware of any direct threat against the international community or British Nationals, but visitors should be aware of the increased violence and potential threat to all those not of the groups’ ethnicity.

On 25 July 2022, demonstrations began in and around Goma, North Kivu province, spreading to other areas in eastern DRC, including Butembo, Sake, Beni, and Uvira, including reports of violence against United Nations facilities and personnel. There is an increased presence of security forces in and around Goma and in affected areas across eastern DRC. You should exercise caution in travel in the city of Goma and avoid crowds and demonstrations. FCDO staff may leave the area temporarily at short notice. See Protests and demonstrations

On 22 May 2021, Mount Nyiragongo volcano, close to the city of Goma, and near the border with Rwanda erupted. Further volcanic activity is possible in future. See Natural disasters and Safety and security

On 12 May 2022 reports were received indicating the risk of a terrorist attack on an unspecified ferry departing from Goma. The UK advises against all but essential travel to Goma.

The Embassy is not currently open to external visitors. It continues to carry out essential work including providing 24/7 consular assistance and support to British people in DRC.

Public gatherings and demonstrations can occur with little or no notice and can quickly turn violent. See Political situation

The security situation in eastern DRC remains unstable. There are continued reports of attacks and kidnappings. NGO staff have been known to be targeted. A “state of siege” is in place in the provinces of Ituri and North Kivu. Military administrations have replaced the civilian administrations during this period. Military forces from DRC and Uganda began conducting air and artillery raids against the Allied Defence Force (ADF) in eastern DRC on 30 November. Ugandan troops are also present as part of joint operations. See Safety and security

Consular support is severely limited in parts of DRC. The lack of infrastructure throughout the country and insecurity in eastern DRC often prevent the British Embassy in Kinshasa from being able to extend normal levels of consular assistance to British nationals anywhere in the DRC other than Kinshasa. You should not assume that the FCDO will be able to provide assistance to leave the country in the event of serious unrest or crisis.

Street crime and robbery is common. You should avoid using any taxis in DRC. If you must take a taxi, use a privately booked one. Don’t hail taxis in the street. Beware of gangs promising you cut price gold and diamonds. See Crime

Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in the DRC. Attacks could be indiscriminate. You should be vigilant, especially in places visited by foreigners. See Terrorism

On 25 July 2022, demonstrations began in Goma, North Kivu province, including reports of violence against United Nations facilities and personnel. You should exercise caution in travel in the city of Goma and avoid crowds and demonstrations. FCDO staff may leave the area temporarily at short notice.

If you’re abroad and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the nearest British embassy, consulate or high commission.